Calling all foodies! I need a menu!

Okay, I really did throw myself a birthday party, and of course I had to put a “pay it forward” spin on it. It was a fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast New York, an organization for which I have the privilege of being a volunteer Wish Granter. I am so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of an organization that works to make the heartfelt wishesof children with life-threatening illnesses become reality.

One of the fundraisers at the party was a live auction for an elegant dinner for up to eight people, to be prepared at the recipient’s home by yours truly. I love to cook, so I thought this would be a pretty easy and fun offering for an auction. This little gem of an idea sold for over $500!

On Saturday, July 30th I will be playing chef and sommelier (“playing” being the operative word), so I need to start planning my menu! I’m so excited about this aspect of it, and I thought it would be fun to get some reader ideas!

Weather permitting, the dinner will be outside. I'm picturing something like this.

So do you have any ideas for a summer menu for eight? There’s nothing like a New England-y lobster bake, but I’d really like to do something a little more original. It should be elegant, but not super complicated – although I spent 16 years in the restaurant biz in another lifetime, I have no formal training, so go easy on me! The only restrictions I have are no veal, no asparagus, no curry, and no red onion. I’d also like to get as many ingredients as possible locally, so think farmer’s market!

What do you think my dear sous chefs?!

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In addition to my wonderful family and friends who helped in a multitude of ways with this event, from flower arranging to frosting cupcakes, I would also like to thank some local businesses for their contributions – thank you!